Can you fit a screen door on a door with sidelights?

In this article, we will explore this topic in detail to provide you with a comprehensive answer.

Understanding Sidelights and Screen Doors

Before we delve into the question, let’s first understand what sidelights and screen doors are.

Sidelights: Sidelights are narrow vertical windows typically located on one or both sides of an exterior door. These windows can be made of glass or other materials and are aimed at allowing natural light to flood into the entryway while providing a view of the outside.

Screen Doors: Screen doors are designed to let in fresh air while keeping insects and debris out. They are typically made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum or vinyl, and consist of a metal or fiberglass mesh screen that allows air to circulate.

Challenges in Fitting a Screen Door on a Door with Sidelights

When it comes to fitting a screen door on a door with sidelights, several challenges arise due to the presence of the sidelight window frames. Here are a few of these challenges:

1. Limited Space: Sidelights occupy space along the sides of the door, leaving limited room for the installation of a traditional hinged or sliding screen door.
2. Improper Alignment: The alignment of the screen door with the sidelights poses another challenge. Since the screen door needs to align perfectly with the door and sidelight frames, any deviation may result in an ill-fitting and ineffective screen door.
3. Aesthetics: The presence of sidelights adds to the visual appeal of the entryway. Installing a screen door without proper consideration for aesthetics may disrupt the overall design and architectural harmony of the entrance.

Workarounds for Fitting a Screen Door on a Door with Sidelights

While the challenges are significant, there are a few workarounds that can help you fit a screen door on a door with sidelights. Here are some options to consider:

1. Retractable Screen Doors: Retractable screen doors are a popular solution for doorways with sidelights. They operate on a sliding track system and can be retracted when not in use, providing unobstructed access to the doorway. Retractable screen doors are installed on either side of the door frame and can easily accommodate the presence of sidelights.
2. Magnetic Screen Doors: Magnetic screen doors offer an alternative solution to traditional screen doors. These doors consist of two overlapping mesh panels that are kept in place by magnetic strips. Magnetic screen doors are attached to the door frame and can be opened and closed using a simple push or pull motion.
3. Custom-built Screen Doors: Another option is to have a custom-made screen door designed specifically to fit the dimensions and aesthetics of your door with sidelights. This requires professional assistance to ensure a perfect fit and maintain the visual appeal of the entrance.

While it may present some challenges, it is indeed possible to fit a screen door on a door with sidelights. Options, such as retractable screen doors, magnetic screen doors, and custom-built screen doors, can be considered to overcome the limitations imposed by the sidelights. Consult with a professional to find the most suitable solution for your specific door setup, maintaining both functionality and aesthetics in mind.